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Ted News Ghana Blog of Wednesday, 23 April 2025
Source: TEDDY VAVA GAWUGA
Thirteen individuals have been arrested and 13 excavators impounded in a targeted operation against illegal mining—commonly referred to as galamsey—at Aboifie, near Samreboï in the Western Region.
The special operation, carried out on April 21, 2025, was based on credible intelligence and led authorities directly to the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve, a protected area where mining activities are strictly prohibited.
During the raid, the excavators were discovered in active use. A subsequent search of the machinery revealed a cache of firearms, including two pump-action guns and a single-barrel gun, hidden onboard.
All 13 suspects are currently in police custody and assisting with ongoing investigations.
Authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to protecting Ghana’s natural resources and say the operation is part of a broader effort to clamp down on illegal mining activities that continue to threaten forests, water bodies, and local communities.
“This is a serious violation of environmental laws, and we are pursuing this with full force,” a security source noted.
Officials have warned that further arrests and equipment seizures are likely as the enforcement campaign intensifies across the country.